Because they play in New York, because they represented New York for so many in the weeks and months after 9/11, the Yankees are a part of the sports connection to that tragic day and time in our history.

“I was well aware of what it meant to New Yorkers at the time (in 2001). We had a lot of people come up to us on the streets and say they weren’t necessarily baseball fans but they found themselves pulling for us at least for that month in the postseason.

“I had the privilege of meeting a lot of the families that lost loved ones in that tragedy. I don’t know if this puts closure to it. I’m sure there’s no closure to someone losing a loved one or a relative…but it sort of brings some closure to it, not total closure, but some.”

Mariano Rivera:

“I’m glad this thing is over. I think at least the people that lost their loved ones on September 11th, I would sense they have a little peace of mind, that this person has been brought to justice.

“It took a while, but definitely…justice has prevailed.”

Joe Girardi:

“There’s been a lot of sadness because of that day in 2001 that people have had to endure. I don’t know how it exactly affects everyone, but I’m sure there is some closure.

“I know our country has been trying to serve justice for the last ten years, and it was done. When crimes are committed against you (people) want to see justice, and I think justice happened.”

Jorge Posada:

“I’m happy for everybody, especially New York. 2001 was pretty tough then. The only thing I remember is the people’s faces. I will never forget that. I’m happy for the city of New York—the firemen, the policemen, and everything we went through. It’s just one of those steps we needed to cross and it’s good to see.”

Alex Rodriguez:

“I’m sure it’s a very emotional day for a lot of people, and a very joyous day. I’ve met a lot of people along the way that had some type of tie-in to the disaster we suffered as a country, and I’m sure they’re feeling much better, they’re hearts are more comfortable now.”